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Cocaine update: abuse and therapy.
1Hahnemann University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
American Family Physician
|January 1, 1990
Summary
Cocaine addiction causes intense psychological dependence and severe depression during withdrawal. While not specific, treatments like desipramine show promise for managing cocaine withdrawal symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Psychiatry
- Toxicology
Background:
- Cocaine exerts potent central and peripheral sympathetic stimulation.
- Physical dependence on cocaine is less severe than with opiates.
- Psychological dependence is a primary driver of cocaine addiction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the pharmacologic effects of cocaine.
- To outline the characteristics of cocaine withdrawal.
- To discuss therapeutic interventions for cocaine abuse and overdose.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of pharmacologic effects and treatment strategies for cocaine.
- Analysis of central nervous system and cardiovascular effects.
- Evaluation of pharmacologic agents for withdrawal and overdose management.
Main Results:
- Cocaine causes intense sympathetic stimulation.
- Severe depression dominates cocaine withdrawal symptoms.
- Desipramine, bromocriptine, and lithium show promise for withdrawal management.
- Diazepam, propranolol, and labetalol are indicated for acute overdose.
Conclusions:
- Psychological dependence and severe depression are key features of cocaine addiction and withdrawal.
- While no specific therapy exists, certain medications show potential for managing withdrawal.
- Acute cocaine overdose requires supportive care and specific pharmacologic interventions.